SOOTW: Computer Comfort

Our mission statement is as follows: Computer Comfort is a volunteer organization that strives to bridge the age gap in Iowa City by educating seniors on today’s technology while building strong relationships in the process.

Multiple times a month, we host technology help sessions at multiple living communities and resource centers where seniors can bring their personal devices and ask questions to university students.

What days/times does your organization typically meet?

We volunteer regularly at 3 different venues, one of which being the senior center near Van Allen Hall every other Monday. Others include Melrose Meadows on Thursdays and Sundays, and Walden Place on select dates.

Why did you personally get involved with this organization? What makes you passionate about this organization?

Ben Mitchinson (Vice President) “I was excited to hear about Computer Comfort as a student in Computer Science and someone who has previously volunteered with senior citizens, and it has been one of the most enjoyable experiences since coming to college! Seniors have told us that by helping them find ways to communicate with their friends and family, their lives have been changed forever, and that makes volunteering incredibly fun and easy.”

Matt Campbell (Executive Committee) “I joined computer comfort to try and get involved with the Iowa City community because I am not from the area. I also wanted to take my passion for tech related things and apply it to those who could use the help to improve their daily lives. I enjoy this organization because of the relationships you build with some of the seniors and seeing how your help has improved their lives. For example the ability to respond to texts from their grandchildren and seeing their face light up when they get a response.”

Drew Bolero (Executive Committee) “My passions for technology and helping others are what drove me to get involved with Computer Comfort, and the impact we have made is what kept me around. The best part about this organization is how easy it is for us to make a significant difference in the lives of these seniors. Many topics we teach them are extremely simple to us, but allow them to see the world in a different way, or connect with people like they never have. I have not encountered more humbling, rewarding experiences than my time volunteering with Computer Comfort.”

If a student is interested in joining this organization, how should they go about it/who should they contact?

If you’re interested in joining computer comfort, we’d love to have you, and the senior citizens of Iowa City could use your help! Reach out to us my sending an email to studorg-ComputerC@uiowa.edu

What social media does your group utilize?

We have an Instagram! The handle is @iowacomputercomfort

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Volunteering with us is incredibly flexible since you can choose to sign up for just 1 session, or as many as you’d like. Each of our volunteers have endless stories from chatting with these members of our community, so come give it a shot!